Smiling, Red listened intently as Lizzy continued to speak non-stop throughout the drive, speculating about what Silas might bring her on his return home.
"What do you think?" Liz's sparkling eyes met Red's. "Maybe some of those weird dolls that fit into each other's insides? I don't have any of those."
"I don't know, sweetheart." Red said. "Candy, maybe?"
"Oh, I like candy." She brightened. "So, you think like chocolate or some specialty candy?"
"Silas knows you like chocolate." He played along.
"Well, he just better get me something." Liz crossed her arms, her mood lowering a bit. "I'd get him something... you know, if I was going somewhere exotic like Russia, I mean." She mentioned. "Unless he doesn't bring me nothing... then I'm not getting him anything ever again."
"I'm sure he'll bring you a gift, Lizzy." Red placated the woman as he looked out the window at the large sprawling acreage and even bigger house which loomed just up the road they traveled.
"Where are we?" Liz looked around the beautiful yard and home with interest.
"You said you wanted to get Silas a puppy," Red gestured, "... so here we are."
"Oh! Red! Liz clapped her hands together, her mouth forming a shocked 'O'.
He grinned over at the woman as Dembe slowed the car to a stop. "Unless, of course, you want to wait until Silas' return, to ensure he has brought a gift for you."
Red chuckled as Lizzy clamored over him and for the door latch, struggling to open it. "He'll bring me something. He was just kidding around...is this thing locked?" She practically squealed her dismay.
Red reached, opening the door easily. "Probably just stuck."
"Oh, I can't wait to see the puppies. I hope they have more than one to choose from!" Liz chattered on excitedly. "I hope it's a little boy...or girl! I don't care. And neither will Silas. He won't really care."
"Well, we'll just have to wait and..." Red broke off as a man called out a greeting and waved at the new arrivals.
"Raymond," the man's Irish brogue welcomed, "it's wonderful to see you again!"
"Oliver," Red clasped the man's hand, smiling warmly, "it has been too long."
"It has, it has." Oliver concurred, then smiled at the woman prancing anxiously at Raymond's side.
"Oliver," Red waved Lizzy forward, "this is my wife, Elizabeth."
"A pleasure, madam." Oliver took her hand, bowing gallantly at the waist. "Raymond tells me you're on the market to get a wee pup for Silas."
"Yes!" Liz nodded eagerly. "Yes, that's why we're here! For a puppy! For my very good friend Silas who will be bringing me a gift all the way from Russia in a few days!"
"I think we have just what you're looking for here, and something Silas will appreciate." Oliver waved a hand to proceed him. "Russia, you say! How exotic."
"That's what I was thinking, too." The man's charm and graciousness clearly enthralled Liz. "But Ireland is a beautiful place, too."
"It tis, Lass...it tis. I miss it." The burly man's smile was a genuine one. "The pups are just this way. Have ya been then, to the Old Country?"
"No, but Red has promised to take me." Lizzy was awfully free these days with promises, Red noted. He shared a comical look with Dembe for the fact.
"Pencil that into our calendar, will you?" He motioned playfully.
Happily following the man's lead, Liz looked back at Red, fairly glowing with excitement. "I'm rather excited to see your babies. I hope we can find an energetic one for Silas. Or maybe kinda moody and mean. Just like him." She giggled. "He's not really like that. He's just tired of late. He'll be better when he gets back from his trip. Wait and see."
"Oh, I know Silas well." The stout Irishman informed the woman. "We go way back."
"He's had a bad two weeks, so I thought a puppy might cheer him up." Liz rattled off, much to Red's amusement.
Oliver smiled, motioning the way. "You have first pick of the litter." He said. "A word of caution, we're keeping the wee runt a couple more weeks to improve his weight. You'll know him by the pink bow on his neck...my wife's notion, not mine."
"Women, right?" Liz nodded her understanding as they walked the kennel. "Silas would die if I brought him a puppy with anything pink on it...and then he'd haunt me for killing him." She laughed gaily, which made Oliver chuckle.
Unlike the pound or other sanctuaries, the place almost resembled the stables where Mark kept his horses. Instead of cages, each Mama dog had their own stall with fresh hay, blankets and toys galore. A niche off to the side offered each their own private green space to play in the grass.
"It's so nice here!" Liz pointed to the lush rooms provided for the animals. She was glad to see them treated so well. "Look how happy they all look!"
"How many litters will this bitch have, pray tell?" Red was curious.
"Don't call her that so she can hear, Red." Liz whispered her concern.
Oliver held his amusement. "Just one." He said. "After their first, or second, we retire them and place them in a home."
"You do?" Liz's brows lifted.
"Yes," Oliver confirmed. "We don't mass breed here, it's not good for the animals or the litters."
"Oh, Red! Look!" Liz pointed to a small Chihuahua sprawled lazily in his straw bedding. She itched to take the tiny animal in her arms, inching closer. "...May I?"
"Please, feel free." Oliver smiled. Opening the gate, the man lifted the small prize, handing it to Elizabeth.
Liz took the little thing, her heart melting. "Hello, sweetie!" She gushed at the tiny bug eyes and slip of a tongue hanging from her mouth. "Look at how adorable you are!" Nuzzling her cheek against the soft fur, she giggled happily as the tiny tongue lashed out, licking the tip of her nose.
"She was a runt we kept on, and has been available," Oliver sighed, "but due to her birth defect–"
"Birth defect?" Liz looked mournfully at the precious bundle, cuddling it protectively to her chest. "I don' t see a birth defect."
"Her jaw is a little offset," Oliver pointed, "which is why her tongue doesn't fully retract." He explained. "We thought to perform surgery, but we're assured it is not painful to her, nor does it impede her nutritional intake... so there's really no need to put her under stress."
Oliver smiled warmly at the small animal. "She's not a show pup, that's for certain... but she'll be a wonderful addition to a family with children, I think."
"Well, I don't see anything wrong with her at all... I think she's just adorable." Kissing the tiny black forehead, Liz tittered softly as the pup lifted into her affection, batting its large beady eyes. "Look at your fat tummy!" She made sweet kissing sounds, tickling the rounded curve of the dog's stomach.
Sending his guard a long-suffering look, Red shook a woeful head.
Dembe sniggered quietly as Liz continued on her tour of the kennel, puppy in hand.
Red noted...she kept the dog. Why, he asked himself, was she keeping this particular dog, but he was already afraid he knew the reason.
"She's latched onto the dork dog, Dembe..." Red muttered sotto voce to his companion. "Why, I ask you."
"You already know." Dembe knew.
"Let's go see what he has for Silas, hum?" Liz spoke with the puppy, who seemed very interested in the conversation.
"Ah, here we are." Oliver waved a hand at his pride and joy.
"Oh, my goodness!" Liz peeked over the stall wall, her eyes widening. "Are they Belgian Malinois?"
Surprised Elizabeth knew the breed, Red's brows lifted in surprise. Well, what the hell. He was kinda proud of her wealth of knowledge.
"I watched a tv show where the guy had one," Liz explained. "It spoke German, you know."
Pinching his lips to hide his smile, Red nodded. "You mean, it understood German."
"Same difference." Liz waved him off, her eyes avidly watching the puppies frolic.
"If you would like to go in," Oliver unlatched the gate, "get to know their personalities... see who you click with..."
"Yes, please!" Liz kissed the puppy in her hands once more before carefully handing it off to Red. "You stay here, baby... Red will take good care of you."
Looking down at the dog, who turned those large, bug eyes his way, Red sighed once more. "I'm such a fucking sucker..."
"You are, yes." Dembe agreed all too readily. But even he reached to stroke the tiny animal once or twice, Red noted.
"Dembe will take good care of you..." Red said, handing the dog off to Dembe.
Stepping forward, Red lay his arms on top of the stall wall, watching Lizzy tip-toe her way into the midst of puppyville.
Slowly lowering herself to the thick hay, Liz lifted her hand out for the array of pups to sniff. "Are you gonna come say hi to me?"
"Their ears should pop in a week or so." Oliver gestured to the pack of floppy-eared miscreants.
More than a few rolled about, showing their bellies to Lizzy, some others ravenously returned to the pile of food that had just been set out for them.
Studying each one critically, Liz focused on each and their own little personalities with avid interest, hoping to pick the very best one for her guard. Some looked at her, then returned to their toys, gnawing on the soft fabric.
She gasped quietly as one stumbled off a stacked pile of hay and rolled down the small incline. The puppy wiggled about, unable to get its feet under him, for his stomach was too a little too large.
"You got a fat tummy, too." Liz beamed, helping the puppy upright, but not before poking its tummy. "They feed you pretty good here, huh?" She made small talk as Red kept a careful watch on both puppy and mistress.
Red's attention shifted as one pup, in particular, towards the back by the green space, sat upright, and cocked his head quizzically. One of its floppy ears perked slightly as it looked on the scene taking place with great interest.
He smothered a smile as the inquisitive pup came bounding up as fast as his small legs would carry him... straight over to Elizabeth.
Stumbling up the soft cushion of hay, the dog sat opposite her, lifting his snout into the air, studying her for some long few moments.
"Well, where did you come from?" She grinned, lifting her hand out for him.
Inching closer to the hand, it lifted its paw, laying it gently against Lizzy's fingers.
"It's nice to meet you." She turned the paw in her fingers, shaking it softly.
Red's eyes softened as the dog crawled into her lap and spun before plopping down in the cradle provided.
Looking up at her husband, Liz's brows lifted, those blue eyes melting with instant love. "It likes me!"
"Now, remember, Lizzy," Red reminded, "this is Silas' dog."
"Yeah, I know," she stroked the soft fur, "but... it likes me." She said, playing with its floppy ears. "Which is more than we can say for Silas." She muttered sourly.
Sharing a muffled laugh with Oliver, Red shrugged. The pup did seem to have a good temperament, seemed very alert... and it did like Elizabeth. Which Red was almost sure Silas would wish inserted into its actual training when the time came.
"We provide training," Oliver mentioned, "but they're a good breed to follow orders, regardless." He made mention. "With Silas' previous experience, I'm sure he won't have any trouble at all."
"Oh, what are you?" Liz said, turning the puppy about in her hands. "It's a boy! Silas will like that, I think."
"Well, then..." Red stepped into the stall, helping Lizzy stand upright with her passenger in tow, "I guess we found our dog."
Cuddling the now sleepy puppy in her arms, Liz cradled it lovingly to her chest. Her brow furrowed, looking back into the stall.
"You're sure," she questioned quietly, "it's okay he leaves his mommy? He's so little and everything."
"I'm positive." Oliver assured. "He's obviously ready to go... they aren't." He said. "He came to you, where the others didn't."
Nodding slowly, Liz comforted the sleeping pup and herself.
"If you should have problems with him," Oliver soothed, "such as crying or anything of that nature, you can bring him back, day or night, for more time with his mum."
"O-Okay..." Liz felt better. "But we won't be back. I'll take good care of him. I promise."
Ushering Lizzy to Oliver's office, Red gathered the needed paperwork, then shook Oliver's hand. "Thank you for making the experience a good one." He canted his head towards his wife.
"It was a pleasure." Oliver assured innocently. "... Truly."
Red sensed something amiss, but couldn't quite put his finger on it. That mischievous twinkle in the Irishman's eye did not bode well.
"What are you up to, you old sod?" Red questioned, holding his smile.
"May the road rise up to meet you." Oliver offered the blessing freely, smiling widely. "May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon..."
"Now, I know you've done something, you bastard." Red scolded. "Don't feed me that Irish charm bullshit."
"You have a wonderful day now, Elizabeth." The man offered a shit-eating grin Red's way. "Take care of her now, lad."
Giving the man one last suspicious look, Red guided Lizzy to the car. He lifted his hands curiously when he found Dembe simply standing there, a rather self-satisfied look on that handsome face.
Hooking his thumb, Dembe gestured to the back seat with a deep exhalation.
Opening the back door, Red closed his eyes wearily as Lizzy squealed her joy.
"Oh, my gosh! What are you doing here!" She reached for the little Chihuahua sitting patiently, as if it had been waiting for her.
Cradling the puppies in opposite arms, Liz kissed them hurriedly. "I love you guys so much!" She said. "You're gonna have the best home ever, I promise!"
Helping Lizzy ease into the car, Red closed the door, muffling Elizabeth's excited chatter about how much Hudson would love them, too.
"A productive visit." Dembe said as they walked about the car.
"That is one dorky little dog." Red agreed, smiling at his ecstatic wife. "I hope the neighbors understand my plight and why I had to let it come home with us."
"Imagine how they will react when Cleo and Caesar arrive." Dembe made mention.
"We're zoned for horses." Red didn't really know. What he did know...money soothed even the most frayed of neighborly disputes. He glanced in the window. One puppy lay snuggled against Lizzy's thigh and the other, snoring in her lap.
"I feel like Noah, readying his ark." Red forewarned. "No more visits to anything remotely dealing with animals for a very long while, yes? Remind me. Especially if Lizzy is along for the ride."
"What...and miss the look on your face as her menagerie grows?" Dembe's face held a rather smug look to Red's way of thinking.
"You can be replaced, you know." He made mention. "No one is indispensable, my pompous friend."
"Just make certain whoever you chose..." Dembe opened the door for Raymond, "doesn't have too many allergies with which to contend."
"Shut up," Red snarked, his amusement just under wraps, "and hurry past that farm down the road. I saw...cows."
Climbing inside the car, he gave Lizzy a suspicious glance, but the woman was too engrossed in her puppies to take note.
LIZZINGTON
"We have to stop at the pet store to get puppy paraphernalia and something new for Keres and Hudson so they don't feel left out..." Liz was ticking off on her fingers on the drive home. "Oh, and I'll get stuff for Silas' puppy, but he'll probably want to go and replace it later on, but that's okay."
"Puppy paraphernalia." Red repeated to an amused Dembe Zuma, both men sharing a laugh at Lizzy's expense, sorta.
"They are just babies, you guys." Liz frowned superficially. "Puppies are babies too. They need things..."
An hour later, and with the SUV loaded down, Dembe pulled into the driveway of the house.
Red slid from the seat, careful not to let the boisterous pups out the opened door. They had awakened in the pet store and it had been pandemonium since.
"I'll take them for a potty break." Liz had already secured the new leashes which the pups were now busy trying to gnaw off. Their fat bodies swirled around on the driveway, scratching their backs against the cobblestone surface.
"We'll unload." Dembe had already enlisted the help of several off-duty guards, all who were more interested in the new arrivals than they were helping out.
To add to the ensuing chaos, a phone began to ring incessantly.
Both Red and Dembe glanced at their respective pocket, but Elizabeth had already retrieved her phone from her jeans.
"Well, mon capitaine, which way?" Dembe asked, arms loaded down with packages of dog stuff.
"How about that room in the pool area?" Red's mind didn't fail him. The room itself was around eight by ten, but it was empty and near the backdoor. "It's warm and has the tile floor, in case of accidents."
"God knows there will be accidents." Dembe started off in the needed direction. With the guards' help, the area was turned into a make-shift puppy playground in minutes.
Red stepped through the archway, dropping the bags in hand. Surveying the area, he went about situating food and water bowls. "What the hell is this contraption?" He queried, a slightly puzzled look on his face.
"A hammock." Dembe managed straight-faced.
"What the hell does a dog need with a..."
"For that stress filled day when one simply wishes to be at the beach?" Dembe assumed.
"Just sit the shit anywhere, guys." Red gestured to a nearby wall. "Lizzy will want to decorate, I'm sure."
The guards hurried back out to search out the puppies.
Just as Red situated the dog gate into place, Lizzy came through the back door, slipping her phone back into her pocket. She had two leashes in hand, but neither was attached to a dog.
"Was it the post office?" Red braced himself.
"No," Liz replied, then winced, "well, in a sense. Samar wants to meet for coffee."
"Meet for coffee..." Red repeated slowly. "Is that the politically correct term to describe interrogation these days?"
"Where are the puppies?" Dembe thought he already knew.
"The guys won't let me take them in yet." The woman tightened her mouth. "They're trying to teach them some tricks..questionable tricks, Red."
Red sighed mentally. "I'm assuming you wish to attend this impromptu coffee clutch?" Moving the conversation away from his guards' antics.
Liz watched those guards carefully just outside the back door of the room. Silas' pup ferociously attacked the new toy Joe was holding out...well, as much as it could with such tiny teeth. Liz's puppy pranced around like it was queen, checking out its new domain with a regal air.
"I would love to go, Red." Liz turned to the man. "It's been a while since me and Samar had some girl time. Do you mind?"
Red didn't have to be clairvoyant to know... Lizzy was nervous about the idea. "Are you sure?" He gave her an out if one was needed. "I can come up with some feasible reason why..." He trailed away. "Didn't she warn you about getting overly involved with the likes of me at one time?"
"She doesn't know you like I do." Liz leaned to kiss his lips gently. "Besides, I can do some grilling now, too. What with Silas' sudden interest in our dark-haired beauty."
He could only hope that Samar wouldn't disappoint her.
"You should go then." Red said.
"Really?" Liz's brows perked. "You don't think...I'm making a mistake?"
"There's only one way to find out." Red outwardly supported the idea. Inwardly, he was already planning on something to make it all better if the shit hit the fan.
"You're already planning an out for me, aren't you?" She smiled slightly. "If I am going to put my foot in it." Her grin widened. "When...I put my foot in it."
"Maybe." He let it lay. "That doesn't mean that you shouldn't try. You need this, Lizzy, and who am I to deny what you need."
"My husband."
"My duty as your husband is to make you happy." Red whistled, and the pups came running for the opened doorway amid the groans and hisses of disappointed guards. "I can only offer my support and opinion."
"It's not like I haven't made mistakes in the past, right?" She quipped. Stooping, she patted the floor for her pup to come to her, which it did, instantly.
"If this is one, I will stop at nothing to correct it." Red said, filling a water bowl. He set it down, tapping the water. Silas' pup jerked its head about, hurrying for the refreshment.
"You're not going to persuade me not to waste my time...or yours?"
"Lizzy, I can't tell you what to do in this instance." Red said, then shrugged. "Or any instance. You're a fully grown woman with excellent decision-making skills."
"I married Tom," Liz reminded, "... and I brought home the dork dog." She cast her husband a teasing glance. "Don't think I didn't hear you."
"I trust you to do what's right for you." He finished blandly.
"What's that supposed to mean?" She asked suspiciously.
"I may push the boundaries at times," Red stated a truth, "but I truly believe whatever I'm doing is for your own good. Doesn't mean I'm right either. We will just have to learn together, I guess."
Rolling exasperated eyes, Liz held her smile. "You know you're dying to tell me to not go."
"Be that as it may," Red didn't dispute her assumption, "I'm not about to say as much, and lose privilege to our bed, to sleep in here with them." He motioned to the dogs.
Snorting under her breath, Liz smiled.
"I know you would like to be on a more..." Red searched for the word, "friendly basis with Samar, since she is literally your own kind." He said. "Only you can decide if she's trustworthy in both a personal and professional capacity."
"It's really annoying when you're right all the time." She grumbled, tearing into the bags of puppy food.
"It must be taxing for you normal people." Red teased. "Take Dembe or Joe with you. You'll relax more with them there."
Scooping out the needed portions, she placed the kibble in the pups' respectful bowls, calling the dogs to their lunch.
"This is yours," she gestured for Silas' pup, "and this is yours!" She lifted her puppy, placing her before the bowl.
Both ate hurriedly, as though they had never before been fed in their entire lives.
"You two..." Liz tsked lovingly. "Little gluttons."
"What are you gonna name it?" Red smiled as he looked on, watching Lizzy happily pet the two furballs.
"I don't know yet..." Liz crinkled her nose. "I guess I don't have a say in Silas'..." she sighed mournfully, "but mine... I guess I'm gonna have to watch her, get to know her personality."
"Just like I did, Dembe." Red grinned at his friend as he helped the woman to her feet.
Giving the man a scowling glance, Dembe mock laughed before returning his attention to the guard swimming laps in the pool.
"You are slowing, Amir." Dembe made note.
"Uh, yeah," Amir wiped the water from his eyes. "I've already put a mile in."
"Your point?" Dembe frowned curiously. "We will increase your strength training to build stamina, and you will not tire so easily."
"My stamina is just fine, thank you." Amir stressed the words, shifting an exasperated glance between Dembe and Elizabeth.
"Your lack of stamina suggests otherwise." Dembe suggested otherwise.
Red smothered a smile when Amir narrowed dark eyes before offering Dembe a very Italian, very rude, gesture. The man bounced off the tile floor, swimming hurriedly down the stretch of the pool.
"When I next question your prowess where there are witnesses," Red scolded, arching a wry brow, "remember, I only do so in a show of encouragement."
"I was unaware you had ever questioned my prowess." Dembe countered, arching his own smart brow.
Liz's lips quivered in amusement when Red looked up towards the heavens. "Lord, please let me live long enough to see him get old." He implored the higher being.
"Get old?" Liz canted her head questioningly. "I mean... isn't he old now?" She asked, then slid a sly glance the man's way. She tittered gleefully when she found Dembe's sullen frown staring back at her.
Chortling, Red patted the man on his shoulder. "You deserved that, my old friend."
"Anyway, when should we introduce them to Hudson and Keres, do you think?" Liz asked Red's thoughts on the matter.
"Keres?" Red arched a brow. "...Never. Not if you want the dogs to remain intact."
Tittering quietly, Liz nudged his shoulder. "...Red, she's not that bad."
"Yeah, whatever." Red sighed. "Give it a couple days," he advised. "Let them get used to their scent... we'll take it from there."
She smiled beautifully as her puppy finished her lunch, took a lap of water, then headed for her bed, where she snuggled down with a fluffy blanket Lizzy said she could not possibly live without.
"Here you go, sweetie." She cooed lovingly, sitting a plush animal beside it. "Oh, here's yours, honey." She wiggled a plush monkey before Silas' more boisterous pup before placing it on his bed.
"I should get the little one a sweater." Liz nodded emphatically; decision made. "She's so tiny... I'm afraid she might get cold."
"You can put it on the agenda for tomorrow." Red scoffed at the amusing imagery. "Until then, I think she'll be okay in here." He gestured to the balmy temperature of the room. "It's eighty-five degrees, Lizzy."
"The guards are cold after they swim." Dembe advised. For everyone knew, this was the changing room for the guards. "Perhaps we should consider purchasing them all sweaters as well."
"You're not being very nice, Dembe." Liz snipped. "Puppies catch cold easily."
"Where is that written again?" Red needed confirmation.
"Oh, shut up...both of you." Liz sighed heavily, then caught sight of all the stuff lying around. "Did I really buy all this?" She was suddenly concerned.
"Well, you are the one with the titanium card these days...not me." Red held his smile.
"Red, this is too much! It's way too much!" She was aghast. "Why didn't you stop me?"
"Why should I stop you?" Red voiced his genuine confusion. "Weren't you having fun?"
"This...isn't normal!" Liz suddenly realized. "My god, I'm becoming that woman who can't stop spending!"
Red chuckled. "Or maybe you're discovering the joys of finally being able to buy whatever you want. Believe me, it doesn't last long, the euphoria. So enjoy while it does."
"What do you mean?" She turned wide, worried eyes.
"It gets old... like Dembe. And then you go back to being what you call normal. Which is a sad thing in my eyes." Red shrugged. "What is money for, I ask, except to bring happiness to a degree. Otherwise, it's just paper."
"I know, but still." She surveyed the area, her senses reeling. "Excess is excess. Normal people don't, and wouldn't, do this. It's–"
"Think about what you're saying." Red held his amusement in check, for the woman seemed abnormally bothered by her spending practices. "Our friends consist of people heavily involved with the mob and arms dealers. You're about to go meet a former Mossad agent for coffee. And don't even get me started on our families' peculiar little eccentricities. Trust me when I say, we are not normal. Nor will we ever be. And I don't necessarily think that's a bad thing."
Liz snickered, then started giggling. "No, I guess when you put it like that."
"We could have a tv show made about our lives." Red warmed to the notion. "I'll have to start thinking about who I'd like to play my part, if it comes down to it."
"What about Kiefer Sutherland?" Dembe suggested.
"No way." Red pulled a disgusted face. "Really, Dembe. He's so full of himself." He scoffed. "And why? He doesn't have my charisma, my good looks. And... and," he stressed his point of view, "that fake, raspy voice makes me want to hand him a cough drop!" He shared his thoughts on the man. "How about Kostner?"
"I thought you wanted a good actor...sorry." Dembe turned up his nose and walked off.
"You know who would be good," Liz's eyes took on a dreamy quality, "... James Spader." She sighed blissfully. "He's so... sexy." She smiled wistfully. "My god... his voice makes me quiver!"
"You do remember, you're speaking to your husband, correct?" Red snapped.
"Well, yes..." Liz dutifully remembered. "But you asked who we thought would best serve to play you, right?"
"Good answer." Red muttered moodily.
Snorting, Liz cuddled in Red's embrace, which he offered over instantly. "Who can play me?"
"If we're talking the old, glamourous stars of the Golden Era...Vivien Leigh." Red didn't hesitate. "Now? Maybe Helena Bonham Carter?"
"Seriously?" She crinkled her nose.
"She's under-rated," Red nodded. "Loved her in Sweeney."
"A movie you've actually seen?" She teased.
"Okay," he conceded, "what about the actress on the series you make me watch?"
"Megan Boone?" Liz's forehead crinkled.
"Yeah," Red shrugged, "she's cute... has beautiful blue eyes." He closed his eyes, picturing how the woman looked. "Her body is also..."
"You do remember," Liz's mouth pinched irritably, "you're speaking to your wife?"
Shaken from his thoughts, Red chuckled at his wife's surly tone.
"What has this all got to do with me spending too much today?" Liz said.
"Lizzy, you're confusing me." Red attempted to recall the point of the proceeding conversation. "And while I normally enjoy it, I'd really like to get to the part of the day where I show you how loud the bed can squeak if we really put our minds to it."
"I don't want to be that type of person, Red." She earnestly stated. "I really feel bad about what I did. Can you even understand why?"
"I understand what you're saying and why." He said. "I don't think you are in danger of ever being that type of person. That's all I'm saying, baby."
"Well, you can't be too sure in life about anything." Liz found that out the hard way of late. "I just want to be more diligent with your money. And I'm going to be, I promise."
"This shit again?" Red's mood altered slightly.
"I didn't mean that exactly." She hedged. "I know, now that we're married, it's our money. I do but..."
"Lizzy, I'm not Tom." Red crossed his arms over his chest, his look a foreboding one. "I don't need a separate account that I can drain so I can make a clean getaway."
"Don't get upset with me." Liz placated. "I wasn't thinking anything like that...really."
"Come on..." Red grasped her hand. "I have something to show you."
Guiding the woman out of the puppy den, Red closed the gate behind them.
"Should we leave them alone so early on?" She cast a wary glance back at the sleeping puppies.
"You think the guards won't be passing through here just to check on them?" Red scoffed as he led her away.
Ushering Lizzy through the house, Red directed the woman towards his office.
"That..." he gestured to the partially unwrapped packages on his desktop, "is all for you."
Slowly scanning the contents of the boxes, Liz's eyes widened, seeing her new name emblazoned on a dozen different credit and bank cards.
Red sat beside her, pulling one of the still unopened envelopes over. "Ah, good. Here is your new license and social security card."
"How did you...?" Her mouth gaped as she lifted her newly minted driver's license and social security card. "Are these real?"
"Of course they're real." Red assured. "Oh, do you mean, are they legitimate government issue?" He grinned slightly. "They are...yes."
Liz lifted shocked eyes. "And you do this...all the time?"
"When needed, of course." Red gave his wife a scolding glance. "I have people everywhere, including within the government. You know this."
"Well..." she hesitated, "I...did, but I'm in denial, because I'm a federal employee, you see." The blue eyes scolded right back.
Waving the issue aside, Red pulled a stack of boxes towards them.
"These cards give you access to all the accounts we share, including the Caymans and Swiss offshore ones." He grinned again. "There's a few of those." He nodded, remembering another tidbit. "I also had paperwork detailing the accounts, Sam, and I opened for you when you were a child."
"Oh, God...are we going there?" The woman wrung her hands woefully.
"I'm telling you, you have access to our accounts." Red emphasized. "I want you to keep yours for emergencies. But other than that..." He said slowly, making sure she understood the words coming out of his mouth. "You are my wife and I'd like to share my life and whatever that entails, with you. Cayman Islands and all."
"I don't know what to say?" She didn't because she was just now beginning to understand the scope of those words.
"Well, there's a first time for everything." He teased.
"Red, I'm serious here." She glanced at the array of cards, the meaning behind them leaving her rather overwhelmed. "I'm...not even sure how to make use of these things." Was there a different procedure for off-shore accounts? She had only heard about those things in movies.
"Then you'll learn." She opened her mouth to argue the point, but he laid his finger over her lips.
"I expect you to use them for whatever you want or need. I don't care if it's a cup of coffee or a brand-new car. Use them, but more importantly, don't even think of feeling guilty when you do."
Again, she swept the array of the opened envelopes and boxes with checks and such. "This is all rather surreal at present."
"Really?" Red was puzzled by such a statement. It was old hat to him. "I just want you to know, if anything happens to me, you are taken care of."
"Stop." Liz bristled. "Just...don't."
Red shrugged. "Whatever, Lizzy. I want you to know about this shit, and I want you to have access to it. End of story."
"For you." The woman sighed mentally. "These should be in a safe deposit box or something, shouldn't they?"
"That's where I keep most of mine." He nodded his approval. "Always have one or two on you, though, just to impress waiters. Though... considering I appear to have lost access to my titanium card, I should retrieve another?" He hinted... heavily.
Rolling exasperated eyes, Liz leaned, removing the card from her back pocket. "Make up your mind, will you." She slapped the card into Red's open palm. "Either we share things or not."
"Yes, well, you have your own now, so," Red slipped his card into his jacket pocket, smiling, "I'm technically sharing."
"You're funny..." She cast him a look, groaning mentally. "Now, I guess I should change for my meet with Samar. Can you watch the puppies?"
"No, I can't watch the puppies." He refused. "I'm not the puppy watcher. The guards can watch the puppies."
"I know you already love them."
"No, you don't." He was pretty certain himself.
She gave him a knowledgeable look.
"Have you had a chance to write your new name as yet?" Red changed the subject.
"What?" She laughed good-naturedly. "What are you talking about?"
"I remember when Carla first had to do that." He smiled at nothing in particular. "It was in aisle eight...Kroger's grocery store. San Diego." He paused, thinking back. "We had gone there to get some food for a special dinner she wanted to make for some new friends on base."
Liz could see the scene he was creating in her mind.
"She bends over at the checkout, signs the check and immediately started crying like a baby." Red laughed at the fond memory. "It means something to a woman." He had concluded at the end of the episode.
Liz was confused. "Does it?"
"So, you haven't signed it anywhere." He took it to mean.
"I...guess not." Liz realized. She was curious now, reaching to secure a post-it note. She hastily scribbled out her name then, gasped. "Well, shit..." She showed the man what had occurred.
"That's not your name." He grinned at the Elizabeth Keen signature.
"Why did I do that?" Liz was stunned.
"Took Carla a month to stop signing checks with her maiden name." He nodded sagely.
Liz instantly bent, signing...she stared at the new signature, emotions welling, coming unbidden to her mind. She swallowed a lump in her throat, arising slowly, seeking out the man.
"It means something to a woman." He gently advised. "At the time, I didn't know if Carla was sad or insane. It wasn't until we were on the drive home, and she had finally stopped crying, that I learned she was just happy." He shrugged again. "Happy to be my wife, happy to be starting a new life, just happy." The realization had made Red happy as well, for a time. "Little did we know what a disaster our lives would turn out to be."
Liz looked at the signature oddly, her emotions still raw.
"Write it, Lizzy." Red suggested quietly. "Get used to it."
Liz stared at a blank sheet of paper over by the compass Red kept on his desk. She remained stationary.
"I'll get us some coffee." He left her alone to her doldrums.
Liz listened to the man's receding footsteps, her hand automatically securing the blank sheet of paper. She sat slowly, pulling the sheet closer.
Concentrating on the paper in front of her, Liz carefully wrote, Elizabeth Reddington.
And then she wrote it again and again.
"What the hell." She whispered brokenly, for she too, was crying like a baby suddenly. Hearing Red's approach, she swiped hastily at her cheeks. Sitting straighter in her chair, she started to crumple the paper into a ball, intending to throw it into the wastebasket under the desk.
She couldn't make herself do so, however. She carefully folded the sheet, placing it in the pocket of her jeans.
As he neared the office a few moments later, Red's eyes softened when he heard Lizzy's sniffling.
"Hey, puppy whisperer," he called out as he came around the corner into the office. The woman sat, almost dejectedly, the sweet face pulled into a soft pout.
"I don't get it." She didn't. "I was Elizabeth Keen. I've been married before. I've written my name thousands of times. Not once, Red," she was befuddled, clearly, "did I ever feel anything but..."
What had she felt the first time she really noted her name after Tom and she were wed? She hadn't. It was that simple. She must have felt happy to have been wed. To be starting a new life? Don't all brides? Did the events following her wedding to Tom color all memories now? Could she have, at one time...felt the depth of emotions she had just felt?
But...Liz hadn't. Emotions, yes. Of course, nice emotions. Surely...nice ones. Liz didn't know what she was feeling, but she knew it was powerful. She knew she'd never been moved to such heights of turmoil and delight. Chaos mixed with euphoria.
"Red..." She lifted astonished eyes, "I'm really your wife."
"Should I be concerned my ex-wife, and now my current wife, cry when writing my name next to theirs?" Red quipped.
"No," she sniffled, "... you idiot."
He smiled softly at her red eyes and nose. "In any case, the end results work out well for me, doesn't it." He crossed, tugging her from the seat, embracing her tenderly. He planted a sedate kiss into her hair. "Or at least, I'm mildly content with the state of things. You?"
Liz lay her head on his shoulder, nodding. "Yes, I'm content as well." Exhaling a shuddering breath, she swiped absently as the tears dampening her cheeks. "It's been an emotional day."
"Has it?" He bent, searching out the blue eyes. "My God, you're not missing Silas, are you?"
She forced a smile. "I'm being silly."
"You're being a woman...my woman." He teased, rewarded by her grin. "Drink your coffee."
"I'm going for coffee." She held her giggle. "With Samar, remember?"
"You really are a party pooper, aren't you." It was as if he only just realized.
"How did you get my signature when I haven't signed it anywhere as yet?" She puzzled suddenly.
"I know people who know people." He waved over the cards, showing the end product.
"Forgers." She nodded knowingly.
"Artists at their craft." He corrected, opening the boxes, until he had eight cards in his hand. "And you have signed it, on our wedding certificate." He reminded.
"Oh, that's right." Liz remembered slowly etching out the name.
"In any case," Red forged on, "this is just to get you started. We'll discuss the other accounts later down the line. Don't want to inundate you, do we."
"Too late." She informed him. "I guess it's just going to take some getting used to."
"That's the attitude to take." He approved. "I just think it should be said, all the accounts are as legitimate as your license and social security card. They're clean and not attached to any of my... business ventures."
His thoughtfulness oddly touched her. "Red, I'm not ashamed of what you do." She hoped he knew that much, at least.
"Why not?"
"Because I'm not." She snapped. "Are you?"
"Sometimes." He confessed. "But my decisions were made a long time ago. Water under the bridge. No going back. I just don't want anything I dabble in to touch you to any great extent. I've always felt that."
"Maybe it's time you dealt with a few truths as well, then." She stated. "It's going to touch me sooner or later. Just like what my parents did touches me from time to time. It's part of what we are."
"Maybe I can change that."
"Maybe." She granted. "But if not, then it's what we are and what we do. I accept it. Especially now, as your wife."
"This is a conversation that might take a while." He smiled to soften the words. "Shouldn't you be getting ready for your coffee thing?"
She was torn about that, just letting it go and whatnot.
"Dembe can walk you through it all. The properties, corporations, charities, etcetera...it's complicated." He knew. "Besides, if you're going to yell at me for something, I'd rather it be more domesticated, like maybe... not taking out the trash."
"We have staff for that." She reminded. "But it wouldn't hurt you to take out the trash occasionally. Make you seem more human to that staff.
"I like being thought of as omnipotent."
"Thought you did." She fought hard not to smile.
"Can I watch you get dressed?" He told more than asked.
"You like to watch, hum."
"What man doesn't." He queried. "What normal guy, anyway."
"You haven't that I've noted." She said. "Except when we're playing."
"Ah...I love those times." The man held out his hand, which she took instantly. "When can we explore again?"
"Shouldn't you be telling me? You enjoy being in charge, don't you?"
"You enjoy me being in charge," his stare was a confident one. "...don't you."
"You said, at such times, I was the one actually in charge." She sidestepped the question nicely.
"In a greater sense," he allowed, mellowing somewhat, "but it's nice to just let go and allow me to take charge...admit it." He moved closer and something in his eyes made the woman...move back a step. "You like obeying me."
She answered cautiously. "I really have to get dressed. I'm going to be late."
A quietness settled over the man. "I expect a true answer when I ask a question...Elizabeth."
Something in that amazing voice tickled along her flesh like a silk scarf. "I like obeying you...to an extent."
"I'll see what I can do to alter that somewhat objectionable fact." He caressed her with his tone and stare. "When you return from your visit with your friend."
Tiny shivers of excitement traversed Lizzy's flesh. She swallowed a tiny bit of apprehension.
"I thought I was going to open gifts later."
"You can open the gifts." His acquiescence was stilted somewhat. "But then...we will return to this enjoyable topic, I think."
Liz lowered her eyes for a beat, then lifted them, a promise of her own in the blue intentness.
"That should be interesting."
"Oh, it will be." The man allowed magnanimously. "Trust me, my little plaything."
Liz moved past the man, who refused to budge an inch, for he had come to stand very close to the desk, which she had taken refuge behind. She felt the distinct bulge of his erection as she pressed close in order to take her leave.
She hesitated, sharing an intimate lift of her eyes with the man before pushing her way forward. "I won't stay long."
"Good to hear." He murmured an enticement.
She suddenly regretted accepting Samar's invitation. But to her chagrin, she could find no way to rescind the acceptance without losing some pride. Was pride all that important, really?
Huffing her annoyance, Liz continued on her way to the bedroom. The sooner she left, she sooner she could get home...
She felt Red's eyes the entire time she walked the hall. Damn! That man had a way about him that put her in her place anytime he so felt like doing so. Liz realized she would have to work on her own methods of communication if ever she was to hold her own with such an experienced individual.
Well, the day was young.
She lifted her head, sending Red a confident stare seconds before entering their room.
She did not see a small smile of triumph grace his lips or the twinkle of mirth fill his eyes for such bravado.
LIZZINGTON
"I guess I'm just wondering..." Samar had some doubts she hoped to voice... clear the air, "and I know it's no one's business but yours and Reddington's." She held up a staying hand. "But you spent an awfully long time with him. Sometimes, when I'm undercover, I get lost in the moment. Do you understand any of that?"
"Realities begin to blur." Liz had heard of such things with agents happening.
"Reddington is a very persuasive, charismatic man." Samar had felt the guy's power on several occasions. "And you're a very desirable woman, Liz."
"You're asking if he's brainwashed me." Liz held her smile, making it easier on her friend.
"Not brainwash, no." Samar disliked that term. "Just...the lifestyle he leads can be very evocative, I should think. Money and power... that bad boy image he exudes can turn a woman's head."
"It sure can." Liz agreed. "But that's not what turned my head. Not at all. It was his tenderness, compassion, and the fact, I believe he truly loves me, Samar. More than any man I've ever encountered. I am totally and irrevocably enchanted by my new husband. I love him with all my being. I am happier than I've ever been in my whole life."
Sitting back, Samar drew in a deep breath, a small smile playing about her lips. "Then...what more needs to be said? If you're happy, I am happy for you."
Liz's smile softened. "I hope you mean that. Your support and friendship means a great deal to me."
"Back at you." Samar's smile widened. "Do you believe these muffins? They're fantastic."
"You're not getting off that easily." Liz lifted a brow. "What's this with you and my head guard? And don't even try to snow me. I know when Silas is smitten and when he's not."
"...Is he?" Samar tried to conceal her interest but... "I think your head guard is smitten with any woman that happens to walk past him."
"That's not true at all." Liz shook her head. "He plays a part. His men expect it, and in a way, I think he believes it's a way to keep his heart intact."
"What do you mean?" Samar was completely engaged, Liz could tell.
"I've watched him for some time now." Liz confided. "He's a kinda fascinating man. He'll be the first to tell you as much. And if you tell him I said so, I'll ask Red to ask Mr. Kaplan to have a serious talk with you."
"Mr. Kaplan?" Samar chuckled.
"Long story. But back to Silas." Liz wasn't going to be deterred. "I don't want to tell tales out of school..."
"Because you're no rat," Samar cut mischievous eyes over, "...but..."
"This goes no further than here," Liz warned, "otherwise, Silas will kick my ass from here to Timbuktu." She sighed lightly. "In fact, I think it's on his bucket list."
"Your secret is safe with me." Samar replied as solemnly as a priest, then snickered.
"He's always digging for tidbits about your life." Liz grinned impishly. "He thinks he's being all stalwart and nonchalant. He ain't." She giggled.
"I...think about him of late." Samar wasn't sure she wanted to share, but tit-for-tat. "A lot, actually. Which is probably something I shouldn't be doing at all."
"Why?" The words devastated Liz. "He's a good man, Samar. Really, he is."
"I know that." The woman dismissed the assumption she might not know it. "But that isn't the type I usually wind up with."
"Which is something I could lay claim to as well." Liz reminded. "But I've found the man who makes me content. That's what I want for you."
"Well, only time will tell." Samar made light of the matter. "All one can do is wait and see what the future brings."
"You could do considerably more if you wanted." Liz grumbled.
"Not with a man like Silas." Samar knew. "He must call the shots. It's ingrained in his make-up. Question is, do I want to give that much power over?" Again, the woman smiled wistfully. "I don't trust men to any great extent. In the world I come from, it's never wise to do so."
"You're in another world now." Liz said. "Some men are worth the trouble and...it's okay to trust. It really is."
"Is it?" Samar's lovely brows lifted questionably. "As I said...we will just have to wait and see."
Sipping her coffee absently, Liz tried to find a way to pry into the other woman's sex life without seeming to do so.
"So..." Samar leaned forward, her fingers linked casually together, "how is your new husband in bed?"
Choking on the hot liquid of her coffee, Liz's mouth dropped agape. She stared wide-eyed at the dark beauty across from her. A secretive smile played about Samar's lips, and her eyes twinkled mischievously.
Liz sorted mentally through her options. "...How do you think he is." She took a safe road, for the question had thrown her momentarily.
"I think he's exceptionally good." Samar answered readily. "I think he's so good that he's one man who actually doesn't have to voice his own accolades."
Liz fought a blush.
"Elizabeth." Samar noted the awkwardness. "If we're really going to be friends. We have to get to the point where we feel comfortable speaking of any subject, don't you think?"
"You're just nosy." Liz felt foolish suddenly. "...But of course, you're right."
"I know perhaps, you might think I'm one of those women who instantly spreads gossip to co-workers, say, or.."
"I don't think that." Wasn't Liz thinking exactly that thought? Would whatever she said to Samar get back to her unit somehow, even if innocently stated when with another trusted co-worker.
"We haven't exactly been inseparable as co-workers, after all. We really don't know each other all that well." Samar put it on the line. "Not really. You have your life and I have mine and work binds us, true. We've had a few drinks at some bars occasionally." She shrugged. "With the guys at work. With some people in your circle. But as for bonding?"
Liz nodded. "That's true, isn't it. But I don't think you spread gossip, Samar. I don't."
"I don't," Samar shrugged, "unless it's about how I rated in the betting pool regarding Ressler's psycho dates."
"That's different." Liz's mouth quirked, but then she sobered. "Considering who Red is, and his work with the task force–"
"This is a sensitive time in your marriage. You have to protect yourself, and Reddington." Samar understood. "Some have opinions which really are none of their concern, but they have them all the same, right?"
Liz sighed heavily, nodding again.
"I'm even putting my two cents in." Samar smiled to soften the statement. "But bottom line? I admire how you've faced certain adversities in your life. Especially the more recent ones. I respect your work ethic and like you as an individual."
Liz softened. "I like you too, Samar." Her smile became genuine. "I was so happy when I knew Silas liked you as well."
"What does that mean?" The woman chuckled musically. "You can't like me if he doesn't?"
"It means, like you as in, like you." Liz reiterated. "As in, he wants to get to know you more intimately, which I think is adorable."
"Adorable." Samar repeated dubiously.
"You know what I mean. He's a good man and you're a good woman and it just feels right that you two try to make a connection." Liz stated her point of view. "At least, in my world."
The silence came as each woman contemplated all said so far.
"Red is very sensual in his lovemaking." Liz tried another tactic.
"So, you and Reddington have..." Samar trailed away, admittedly surprised Liz had become intimate with Reddington, let alone shared that information freely.
"Yes, we did." Liz confirmed. "He takes his time and is most considerate of his lover." She confessed. Perhaps if she shared...her companion might feel more comfortable doing so as well.
"I haven't met anyone to date that I consider worthy of a second date, so..." Samar shrugged aimlessly. "I can't share too much except none of these guys made it past first base. You know what I'm looking for?" She tilted her head questioningly.
"A good man?"
"A good man...in bed." Samar corrected. "Just someone to be comfortable with. To not have to concern myself about the next day...or the next time."
Liz was disappointed. "Is that how you see Silas?"
"It's probably how he sees me." The woman was truthful to a fault.
"I don't think so." Liz didn't, her brow furrowed emphatically.
"Silas is...different, you're right." It was conceded. "I'm picking up something that, quite frankly, I'm not certain I am ready for."
Liz closed her mouth hastily. "Oh...I see."
"I'm glad you do because that man has me thinking things I should not think." Samar was not happy with the fact. "I'm not ready for anything other than what I said. Someone to trust with my sexual needs...someone who won't expect too much from the relationship. I've been burned too many times, Liz." She shook those long tresses. "I've trusted too quickly. It's what my culture expects of women, I suppose. I thought I was better than that."
"Or maybe you just gave your trust over to the wrong man." Liz spoke from experience.
Samar looked deeply into her coffee cup, her thoughts varied ones. "How do you think Silas is in bed?"
"Well, he has enough experience." Liz quipped, then sobered. "I think he would be demanding of his partner. But he can be so sensitive and caring...not with me." She rolled her eyes. "I rub him the wrong way, on purpose, and he knows it. But with a woman he cared for? I don't think there is anything he wouldn't do to make her feel like a Queen."
Samar remained pointedly silent.
"He goes through women for a reason, Samar." Liz held up for her friend. "He's afraid to allow himself to get close again. I mean...really close. He enjoys sex, sure. But then, it's over and done and he's got his work. It's a safe place to return to because the other place..." she was sharing too much, she knew, "well, let's just say, I understand why he focuses on his work."
Both women fell silent, absently sipping their coffee.
"Speaking of work," Liz glanced back at the work alcoholic across from her, "do you enjoy your position here?
"I'm happy here...at the Blacksite." Samar would share that much. "I feel like I'm making a difference most days. Not just using my body for the upper echelon's purposes."
"You hold your own with any man in the unit." Liz reminded. "And are better than most."
Samar shrugged such praise aside. "I hope this assignment holds out until I can get my bearings here in this country. Which I love as well." She brightened. "A woman, a female, has a chance to better herself here if she applies her skills and knowledge. There is a future for me...here."
Liz smiled happily. "There is a future for the likes of you, anywhere, but I get your drift."
Samar leaned forward, placing her fingers together beneath the sensual curve of her lips, her stare a direct one. "I'm just finding my way, Liz. I'm not sure I would be any good for a man, especially Silas, until I understand myself better. Can you understand that?"
"More than you realize." Liz assured. "Any woman can understand that need."
"And even if Silas has the best cock on the entire planet, I think he needs more than I can give him at present." She confided. "Although, I wouldn't turn down that cock if it was offered in the correct vein. You get that as well, hum?"
Liz laughed her glee. "Oh, I'm sure it will be offered over gleefully as soon as humanly possible."
"Well, one could hope, but you're right. He is a good man. One I don't want to hurt in any way, shape or form." Samar explained. "I just didn't want that to be an obstacle in the path to our connecting in some form or other."
"Silas is a big boy." Liz explained right back. "He can take care of himself, and me...and you...and whatever problem you might have that keeps you two apart."
Samar shook her head woefully. "And we're right back to square one with that stubborn guard of yours."
"I'll trust in his abilities," Liz held up a peaceful hand, "is all I'm saying on the matter."
LIZZINGTON
AUTHOR NOTE: Yes, I'm aware the grocery stores are called Ralphs, but Krogers sounded more amusing